#SDCC15: “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” Trailer Ups The Ante

Admittedly, I haven’t been the biggest fan of DC’s film adaptations. With Marvel firing on all cylinders, DC just hasn’t been able to make movies with the same gravitas or lasting effects. However, the trailer for the forthcoming Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice appears to be changing that.

To date, the promotional efforts for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice have made the film come off an obligatory means for introducing the DC heroes into one cinematic universe. We know that we’ll get Batman as well as smaller appearances from Wonder Woman and Aquaman in this film. But its place as a quasi-sequel to Man of Steel just seemed odd.

But in watching the trailer, we get key insight into the climate on Earth in the wake of Superman’s battle with Zod as well as the axes that both Superman and Batman have to grind against each other. These two become enemies in both their superhero and alter ego personas. It’ll be interesting to see how the battle plays out on both fronts.

Judging by the trailer, Batman seems to be the larger presence in the film. That seems like a misstep, especially depicting the death of his parents for the umpteenth time. And unless Lex loans out a chunk of the large kryptonite rock he’s got encased, I don’t see how Batman stands a chance anyway. Still, I’m sure a common foe will push them to see past their differences to see how much stronger they are together.

In all, the movie looks to be a solid effort. Keeps the same tone and stark cinematic quality as Man of Steel, so the film’s instantly connected. Extra intriguing bits include Wonder Woman looking decently fierce in battle, the mysterious transport of Zod’s dead body, and a particularly chilling Lex Luther. The only thing missing here is an actual battle between the comic titans. If that battle can be captivating and make it seem like either party could come out a loser, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice might just be a winner.

Look for Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, and Gal Godot to elevate the DC comics films properties when the movie is released next year.